Thailand issues flood travel update

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is stressing that most key tourist destinations and attractions throughout the country have not been affected by the floods and almost all remain open. The floods are mainly affecting provinces in central Thailand including parts of Bangkok, plus a few provinces in the north and northeast. Flood waters in provinces in northern Thailand have begun to subside. Ayutthaya is the only tourist destination widely affected by the floods, TAT says, while other provinces where tourists generally go have been slightly impacted. Destinations such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Sukhothai, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Pattaya, Ko Chang, Rayong, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Ko Samui, and all provinces in southern Thailand, are not affected by the floods and are fully accessible. Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok has not been affected by the floods and is operating as usual. This airport has “considerable flood protection measures in place”. As reported, Don Mueang Airport, which handles domestic airlines, has been closed until November 1. Flood waters are being drained through Bangkok’s system of canals in a controlled manner, TAT adds. Key areas of central Bangkok where tourists normally go are not flooded. Some of the suburbs and areas along the Chao Phraya River are experiencing localised flooding. Major events like the Phimai Festival and the Loi Krathong Festival are going ahead as planned, although the opening date for the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek Fair has been moved from November 9 to December 16.ThaiTravelNews